Become Fighter
Building a game plan: Boxing guide
Scout, choose two or three tools and prepare the first and second plan.
A game plan is a short list of what you will do and what you will avoid. It is built from what you know about the opponent and what you do best. It should fit on a card: if you cannot say it in a few sentences, it is too complicated.
The best plans have a plan A and a plan B. Plan A is what you expect to work. Plan B is what you switch to if the opponent adapts or if you are behind.
Key points
- Scout. Watch video if it is available and ask your coach for what is known about the opponent.
- Note their stance, reach, strengths, habits and what they do when hurt or tired.
- Choose two or three tools that fit: for example the jab, the body hook and the pivot.
- Decide what to avoid: for example do not trade in the pocket.
- Have a plan B you have practised in sparring. Do not invent it on the night.
Common mistakes and how to fix them
- Making the plan too complicated. Two or three tools and two or three rules. Fit it on a card.
- Preparing no plan B. Practise it in sparring. You will need it more often than you think.
- Ignoring your own strengths. The plan must use what you do best, not what you think the opponent is weak at.
The rest is in the app
The step-by-step breakdown, the timed drill with the coach calling the shots and the quiz are part of Become Fighter Pro, where this lesson sits in the Fight craft module of Boxing fundamentals.
Get it on Google Play. Coming soon to the App Store.
More from Fight craft
- How a fight is scored: Boxing guide
- Round-by-round strategy: Boxing guide
- Fight week routine: Boxing guide
- Nerves and the warm-up: Boxing guide
Combat sports training is hard on the body. Warm up, stay within your limits and check with a doctor first if you have a health condition. Practise in a clear space and stop if you feel pain or dizziness. Learn partner work only under a qualified coach.